PROFESSOR Dr Sivakumar Krishnasamy, Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, made history by becoming the first Malaysian to be awarded the prestigious Fellowship in Faculty of Surgical Trainers by the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh (RCSEd).
The award was officially conferred recently during the Royal College Diplomate Ceremony, held at the Park Royal Collection Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.
This recognition marks a proud milestone for Malaysia in the global surgical community.
The Fellowship is reserved for surgeons who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to surgical education and leadership.
As a university-based surgeon, Dr Sivakumar has not only made remarkable contributions to patient care but has also shaped the future of cardiothoracic surgery in Malaysia through his commitment to training the next generation of surgeons.
“This is a very significant recognition for me, especially as a surgeon in an academic setting where our primary role is to train young surgeons to become assets to the nation. Professionally, this fellowship is a recognition of my commitment to surgical education and my continued efforts in advancing excellence in cardiothoracic surgery for Universiti Malaya and Malaysia.
“As a surgeon, I can save one life at a time. But as a trainer, I can empower others to save many more. I always say, if I do one, I treat 10; but if I train 10, I get 100 done. This simple idea is what drives my passion as a university professor in cardiothoracic surgery,” said Dr Sivakumar.
Having performed countless life-saving procedures, he believes that his role as a trainer carries an even broader impact.
“Irrespective of the stage in your career, always strive to be the best. International recognition will follow naturally when we stay true to our purpose. As medical educators, every student we train is a step toward treating the nation.
“Cardiothoracic surgery in Malaysia is still underrepresented. By increasing the number of trained surgeons, we can better serve patients with heart and lung conditions across the country,” he added.
Looking ahead, Dr Sivakumar is spearheading a major academic initiative, the development of the Master’s in Cardiothoracic Surgery programme at Universiti Malaya.
“We are working to benchmark this programme against international standards. Our goal is to establish Universiti Malaya as a centre of excellence for cardiothoracic surgical training, not only for Malaysia but also for the ASEAN region.”
Vice Chancellor of Universiti Malaya, Professor Datuk Seri Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman, also expressed his pride over the recognition.
“I am truly proud of Dr Sivakumar’s achievement. He is a distinguished academic and a renowned surgeon who has contributed greatly to the nation. His success reflects the excellence of Universiti Malaya and inspires our community to continue striving for global recognition.
“UM remains steadfast in its mission to produce world-class talent and graduates who are not only academically outstanding but also capable of making significant contributions to national development,” Dr Noor Azuan added. – August 23, 2025
